Alice Ruhweza appointed President of AGRA

AFRICA – The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has announced the appointment of Alice Ruhweza as its new President, effective March 1, 2025. 

The appointment follows an extensive selection process conducted in partnership with Spencer Stuart. 

Ruhweza will succeed Dr. Agnes Kalibata, who has served two terms at the helm of AGRA, leading transformative initiatives across the continent.

Ruhweza brings nearly three decades of experience as a global thought leader and systems thinker, with expertise in economic, social, and environmental policy. Her career spans leadership roles in government, the private sector, the United Nations, and international NGOs. 

Currently serving at the World Wide Fund for Nature, she has championed the role of inclusive agri-food systems in addressing climate change, reversing environmental degradation, and improving livelihoods and nutrition security for millions of Africans.

Leadership transition

H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn, AGRA’s Board Chair, expressed confidence in Ruhweza’s ability to build on the foundation laid by Dr. Kalibata.

“We are excited to welcome Alice Ruhweza as AGRA’s next President. Her extensive international experience and profound understanding of the African landscape equip her to navigate diverse cultures and drive collaboration across sectors. Her leadership will ensure AGRA continues to support countries in expediting their development,” Dessalegn stated.

Dr. Agnes Kalibata reflected on her decade-long tenure, emphasizing the strides made in positioning AGRA as a leading African institution.

“As I transition from my role, I am immensely proud of AGRA’s transformative journey. I am confident that Alice Ruhweza’s leadership will drive AGRA forward, meeting new challenges and advancing its mission,” Kalibata remarked.

Vision for the future

In her inaugural statement, Ruhweza highlighted the pivotal role of agri-food systems in driving Africa’s economic growth, job creation, and climate resilience.

“For Africa to achieve sustainable and resilient agri-food systems, the next five years demand urgency and bold investments in research, innovative technologies, and climate-smart farming practices. I am honored to join AGRA at this critical juncture,” Ruhweza stated.

She also noted the significance of the upcoming Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) strategy for 2026-2035, emphasizing AGRA’s commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural transformation.

Established in 2006, AGRA is an African-led institution dedicated to transforming agriculture from subsistence farming into a thriving business that boosts incomes and enhances food security. 

With operations in 12 countries, AGRA collaborates with governments, private sector actors, and development partners to place smallholder farmers at the center of the continent’s agricultural economy.